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...paradigms and models

The American Heritage Dictionary (2003) defines "model" as "A schematic description of a system, theory or phenomenon that accounts for its known or inferred properties and may be used for further study of its characteristics." As this definition suggests, a model is an organized way of presenting knowledge that facilitates understanding and aids in further study. For example, Callista Roy's Adaptation Model describes how individuals adapt to stress, such as the stress caused by disease, and in so doing offers a means for nurses to better understand the fundamental motivations of human behavior.
The American Heritage Dictionary (2003) defines "paradigm" as "A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitute a way of viewing reality for the community that shares them, especially in an intellectual discipline." As this suggests, a paradigm takes a larger view, encompassing more intellectual territory than a model. Yet, the terms are very similar. In general, however, models serve to explain aspects of a paradigm. For instance, Roy's Adaptation Model is considered to...